Thanks for sharing your invaluable perspective James, that all makes perfect sense.

I hope that someone followed up on reporting the incident to CFB staff (at the very least). Determining whether or not the counterfeit trader’s intent was malicious or not may be challenging, but at least identifying this individual AND the nature of the incident would help shed light and awareness, which I feel would benefit the Community as a whole. Even if there are no direct repercussions, this vigilance and awareness could potentially deter future incidents because it lets the would-be scum-runners know that we (as a Community) are not complacent. We are aware and watching!

Even though it may be the last thing you wish to pursue (time and energy-wise), I would argue that documenting and reporting these incidents to the proper authorities (TO’s, Wizards, law enforcement, etc.) is just as important as recognizing and calling out the problem. This creates a documented trail of evidence, which is helpful in the long run should someone be an actual victim of a crime* (Criminal Simulation or Scheme to Defraud, possibly).

*Just some recommendations and personal experience from working in law enforcement.

Great article, and I am very happy that you were able to incorporate this experience into it! Thanks for sharing!